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Mother (Japan)

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Getting to Know Mother

Mother, known as EarthBound Beginnings in its later releases, is a role-playing game developed by Nintendo for the Nintendo Entertainment System. Released exclusively in Japan in 1989, it holds a special place in retro gaming history as one of the early titles that blended traditional RPG elements with quirky humor and contemporary settings. Despite its eventual international release in 2015 on the Wii U, the original NES version remains a unique experience largely appreciated by collectors and fans of the genre. In Mother, players take on the role of a young boy named Ninten as he explores a stylized version of 1980s Japan. The gameplay revolves around turn-based combat, character interaction, and exploration within a vibrant world filled with strange enemies and quirky townsfolk. Players engage in battles, solve puzzles, and uncover the story through dialogue and item collection. The mechanics are reminiscent of early RPGs, making it a foundational experience for fans of the genre, and it incorporates elements such as leveling up and gaining new abilities. This title is worth exploring today for its nostalgic value and its role in shaping the RPG genre. It stands out for its humor and the way it addresses themes like friendship and family, setting it apart from other RPGs of its time. While it may not have the polish of more modern titles, its charm and unique storytelling make it an interesting piece of gaming history that showcases the evolution of role-playing games.

GAME INFO

Platform: Nintendo Entertainment System
Genre: RPG
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Nintendo
Released: 1989
Players: 1
Region: Japan

How to play Mother online

To get started in Mother, you will first navigate the main menu, which is entirely in Japanese. After selecting your save file or starting a new game, you’ll be introduced to Ninten, the protagonist. The early part of the game involves exploring your hometown, interacting with various characters to gather information and items, and gradually learning about your quest.

The core gameplay loop centers around exploration, combat, and character development. As you progress, you’ll encounter enemies in the field, engage in turn-based battles, and collect experience points to level up. Pay attention to your surroundings and conversations, as they often provide hints and context needed to advance. The game encourages exploration and experimentation, which is a hallmark of the RPG genre.

CONTROLS

Controls

Arrow Keys — D-Pad / Movement
X — A button (jump / confirm)
S — B button (run / attack / cancel)
Enter — Start / Pause
V — Select

Mother FAQ

Does Mother have a multiplayer or co-op mode?

There is no multiplayer or co-op mode in Mother. It is designed as a single-player experience, focusing on the story of Ninten and his adventures.

Is Mother exclusive to Nintendo Entertainment System or did it appear on other systems?

Originally released on the Nintendo Entertainment System, Mother has also been made available on the Wii U as part of the Virtual Console. However, the NES version remains its most recognized format.

Can players save progress in Mother?

Players can save their progress in Mother by using phone booths scattered throughout the game world. This mechanic allows for convenient saving, a feature that was not common in many earlier RPGs.

All Nintendo Entertainment System games